2 Thessalonians 1: Group Study Handout

How to use: read 2 Thessalonians 1 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy greet the Thessalonian assembly, wishing them grace and peace from God and Jesus Christ (vv. 1-2). They express gratitude for the Thessalonians' growing faith and abundant love for each other (vv. 3-4). Paul notes that their perseverance amid persecutions and afflictions is a sign of their worthiness for God’s Kingdom (vv. 5-6). He mentions that God will repay those who afflict them and give relief to the afflicted when Jesus is revealed with angels (vv. 7-10). Paul also prays for the Thessalonians to be counted worthy of their calling, that God may fulfill their desires for goodness and faith (vv. 11-12). He emphasizes that the name of Jesus may be glorified in them and they in Him, according to God’s grace in Christ.

Key verse

“This is an obvious sign of the righteous judgment of God, to the end that you may be counted worthy of God’s Kingdom, for which you also suffer.”
2 Thessalonians 1:5 (WEB)

Outline

2 Thessalonians 1:1–2 Greeting and Introduction
2 Thessalonians 1:3–4 Thankfulness for Faith and Love
2 Thessalonians 1:5–6 Affliction as a Sign of Worthiness
2 Thessalonians 1:7–10 Justice for the Afflicted and the Afflicters
2 Thessalonians 1:11–12 Prayer for Worthiness and Glory

Discussion questions

In v3, what does Paul thank God for regarding the Thessalonians?
What do we learn about the Thessalonians' love in v3?
In v5, what does it mean to be 'counted worthy' of God's Kingdom?
In vv. 9-10, how are the concepts of 'eternal destruction' and 'glorified' contrasted?
When have you felt relief during a difficult time, like in v7?

Go deeper

Passages that echo 2 Thessalonians 1: Philippians 1, Romans 8, Matthew 25.

Before next time: read 2 Thessalonians 2.